Nuclear chemistry notes packet

4. Positron - A positive electron is emitted that signifies a proton has been changed into
a neutron. Therefore the atomic # is decreased but the mass remains the same.
Ex. Potassium 37
Radioactive decay series – A series of nuclear reactions that begins with an unstable
nucleus and results with the formation of a stable nucleus. Use Table N
Half-life – The time required for half of a radioactive isotope to
decay to its product. No matter what temperature or pressure or what size the sample in
one half-life 50% of it will always decay.
% Isotope
Solving Half-life questions:
Initial amount
Fraction remaining
½ life
Half - Life